What your veterinarians in High Point, North Carolina want you to know

Your pet is like a member of the family, and your pet’s healthcare is very important to you. You want your pet to live a long and healthy life. It all begins with what you feed your pet. The veterinarians Dr. Harvey Goho, Dr. Lydia Goho, and Dr. Shelly Figgatt at Skeet Club & Total Care Veterinary Hospitals in High Point, North Carolina want to share what you should know about keeping a healthy diet for your pet.

Pets need water, and lots of it. Water helps your pet stay cool and aids in your pet’s normal body functions like digestion and respiration. Have a constant supply of fresh water available.

Pets also need a balance of nutrients, protein, fats, and carbohydrates which can vary depending on the age and health of your pet. These dietary requirements are more easily available in commercial dog food, and NOT human food from the table. If human food is fed to your pet, it should be in a small amount of 10% or less.

Human foods that can be fed to your pet include cooked eggs, green beans, salmon, peanut butter, apples, cheese, carrots, cottage cheese, and sweet potatoes. It’s important to discuss these foods with your veterinarian before giving them to your pet. You should also monitor your pet for any allergic reactions to these foods.

There are some foods that you should NOT feed your pet. Certain foods can cause diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, and even death. Avoid feeding your pet these foods:

• Alcohol and caffeine
• Salty foods and nuts
• Avocadoes and coconut oil
• Raw meat and raw eggs
• Citrus fruits, grapes, and raisins
• Foods with garlic or onions

For animal-specific diet and nutrition tips, please visit the Online Veterinary Education Library on the website at https://www.totalcarevethospital.com/education.html

If you need help taking care of your pet, talk with the experts. Call the veterinarians at Skeet Club & Total Care Veterinary Hospitals in High Point, North Carolina today!